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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.